Last week, the public comment period for the Statutory Program Integrity Requirements Rule for the Title X Family Planning Program ended. This proposed “gag rule” that would potentially strip Title X family planning funds from any provider that offers abortion services or referrals. NCSD submitted comments addressing concerns with the new rule and its changes to Title X. Contained within NCSD’s comments are points of concern, including:

• The removal of language specifying that family planning methods and services be “medically approved” and interference in the patient-provider relationship
• The shift to a stronger directive that that grantees are not required to provide every acceptable and effective family planning method
• Restrictions on the use of Title X funding for developing infrastructure
• Required documentation of parent communication and age of sexual partners

NCSD also signed onto a letter spearheaded by the Federal Aids Policy Partnership (FAPP). FAPP is a coalition with more than 120 local, regional and national organizations who advocate for federal funding, legislation and policy to end HIV and HCV epidemics in the US and its territories, and NCSD is an active member of FAPP. This letter highlights the need to be inclusive of all individuals, regardless of their access to health insurance, and financial or social background to provide access for all services.

NCSD recognizes family planning clinics as key allies in the fight against STDs and essential access points for high quality sexual health care. We will continue to advocate for good Title X policies and policies that strengthen STD clinics and care around the country.